The different facets of the life of Pichumani Venkatraman

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Of Diwali, Ganga Snanam and Intolerance.

If you are a Tamilian, I am sure you would have been inquired if you took the Ganga Snanam today morning.

For those who do not know, the bath on Diwali morning is supposed to be had with the purifying waters of the river Ganges invoked in a ritualistic manner.

The river Ganges is no doubt considered holy. But in other rituals many other rivers are also invoked and prayed. Why rivers, even animals ( besides the cows, the vahanas of several Gods ), agricultural produce ( Pongal / Baishaki ) the Sun, Moon and Planets are all worshipped.

In fact Hinduism is probably one of the most eco sensitive religions having been nurtured in a cradle of bountiful abundance.

But in due course of time, crusaders of religions that developed in arid lands took over our control. They did not accept that nature’s wonders can be worshipped as manifestation of the divine presence.

They termed Hinduism as a pagan religion. And denounced it. They announced that there can be only one God and that God i s ( insert name here )

Even the female form of deity was anathema to them. The Supreme being was Male centric. And very ironically ruled that Hinduism was not female friendly.

HInduism has one of the principle tenets of Ahimsa. Letting everyone live their lives in peace.

Even Jewish historians have recorded that India has been the most accomodative of countries.

And we now hear that we are intolerant.

Even Jewish historians have recorded that India has been the most accomodative of countries.